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Source: Athens Banner HeraldThree Athens restaurants are now on a recommendation list for travelers through the state.Heirloom Cafe, home.made and Sr. Sol Mexican Restaurant were chosen by the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s tourism division to be part of its “100 Plates Locals Love,” according to a press release from the Athens Convention and Visitors Bureau.The state tourism division creates a culinary guide called “Georgia Eats.” The guide includes the local plates list to encourage visitors to stop by and try locally-owned restaurants.

The guide is distributed at 12 Visitor Information Centers in the state and is also available online at ExploreGeorgia.org. Kevin Langston, deputy commissioner for tourism at the Georgia Department of Economic Development, said the hand-chosen restaurants on the list are just a sampling of the state’s variety of restaurants.

“Georgia’s cities, towns and back roads are filled with authentic restaurants and culinary specialties that visitors love to experience when they travel,” Langston said. “The list of ‘100 Plates Locals Love’ is our way of providing visitors and locals with suggestions, the same way we would recommend restaurants to our family and friends.”Athens Convention & Visitors Bureau Director Chuck Jones said the trio of Athens restaurants chosen for the list are spread around town.​“It was not a surprise to find out that three local restaurants had been named to this distinguished list,” Jones said. “The Athens culinary scene has blossomed over the past decade or so, in particular, with some 60 restaurants in downtown Athens. The fantastic restaurants don’t just exist in downtown Athens, though. Spectacular restaurants are located in a variety of neighborhoods, which are evidenced by this year’s recognized eateries.” The Athens eateries were chosen from about 600 nominations.The state will continue to celebrate restaurants in July when participating eateries will offer specially-priced meals and samples for locals and visitors on Georgia Restaurant Week from July 18-24